How to Easily Expand a Closet

Bookcases are ideal for expanding a closet and storing things other than books.

There are two types of closets: walk-ins and reach-ins. Sometimes neither offers enough space. Easily increase a closet’s size without constructing walls, installing closet doors or permanently altering the room with a couple of tall, freestanding bookcases. After a little shopping and some creative arranging, turn a reach-in closet into a walk-in closet or a small walk-in closet into a roomier one. Maybe it’s time to unload clothing you haven’t worn for years or items no longer needed -- have a yard sale to clear out some clutter and put the money raised toward an easy closet expansion.

1

Determine how much space you have available or how many square feet you are willing to give up from the room to create a protruding closet. For example, if the closet you are designing is in the bedroom, decide how you can rearrange the bed and dresser to allow for the expansion.

2

Measure the perimeter of the closet's predetermined space to establish the required bookcases widths. You will be forming an L-shaped “wall” with 2 or more bookcases projecting into the space. The first shelving system will form the “wall” out from one side of the closet. The other will complete the “L-shape” off the first, leaving space for access.

3

Account for access into the new closet from the open side of the “L” by calculating for a comfortable minimum of 3 feet -- approximately the width of a standard hallway.

4

Shop for freestanding bookcases in the required sizes with finished backs. Depending on the closet's placement within the room, the backs may be exposed so they should be appealing. Look for standard bookshelves or cubby-style shelving systems. Buy a few square or rectangle storage baskets that fit the bookcase’s shelves for storing small items, such as shoes, craft items, seasonal toys, underwear and swimwear.

5

Remove the closet’s doors for an open or expanded, walk-in feel. Sliding doors, bi-fold doors and collapsible accordion-style doors typically lift and unhook from the tracks. Store the doors for future use or in case, you move.

6

Stand the first bookcase at a right angle out from the edge of the closet. Set the second shelving system at a right angle from the first.

7

Screw coat hooks on the end of the bookcase -- where you enter the newly expanded "closet" -- for hanging housecoats, clothing and belts.

8

Place the baskets on the shelves and fill them with small items. Use the rest of the shelf space for folded clothing, toiletries, knickknacks and even books.

Things You Will Need

Tape measure

Bookcases

Baskets

Tip

The configuration of your expanded closet may vary. For instance, if the existing closet takes up the entire wall, place a freestanding bookcase or two facing the closet, but 3 or 4 feet out from it depending on allowable space. Leave a 3-foot opening for access on the left, right or through the center. Screw coat hooks on the wall between the shelves and closet.

Instead of using bookshelves to form walls, use tall wardrobes.

Warning

Bookcases that are not against a wall might easily topple over. Secure the furnishings to studs in the wall and/or joists in the floor to make them more secure.

About the Author

Lorna Hordos has owned a home-flipping business for more than two decades. She uses her construction and interior design experience to write friendly, conversational home and lifestyle articles for Daltile, Marazzi, Lowes and numerous other publications. She also enjoys writing for children, and has been featured on the cover of Humpty Dumpty magazine.